SU Choir Sings Spirits of Our Ancestors

While remembering our past and celebrating our future, the Southern University Concert Choir inspired many through song on February 25 in the DeBose Music Recital Hall.
Under the direction of Charles Lloyd Jr., the concert choir inspirationally showcased their talents in a tribute to the Negro spirituals of the past.
The choir showcased over 40 members and sung six Negro spirituals that ranged from Hush! Somebody’s Calling My Name to Lift Every Voice and Sing,the African-American National Anthem.
In the introduction Raymond J. Lockett, chairman of the history department, helped the audience imagine what it was like for the slaves that could only express their feelings through song.
“The spirituals sung throughout the program gave the choir a since of fulfillment and honor to sing songs with such great meaning to help the spirit live on,” said Nina Gray, a senior music major from Lake Charles. During the program Gray lead Ride on King Jesus and Precious Lord.
Kimberly R. Spruel, Clifford Nichols, Joshua Williams, Terrence Tyler, Ronald Smith, Donald Manuel and Ebony Benton all sung solos with the utmost respect for the strife and struggle slaves expressed in their lyrics.
Leaving the program “You could not help but be filled with the spirits of our ancestors hope for their achievements soon to come,” said Tara Dennison, a senior mass communications major from Fairfax, Va.
“Being a member of the choir gives you a chance to experience different varieties of music both spiritual and classical,” said Uletta Carter,a sophomore music education major from Baton Rouge.
“The performance was terrific and much better than last year because of the exposure to our culture that the whole university should experience,” said Lockett.
“The Concert Choir is becoming one of the premier performing ensembles gaining a reputation of excellence and professionalism. Their performance tonight was fabulous and I am very proud of their efforts,” said Lloyd.
The Southern University Concert Choir is an asset to the university by serving as ambassadors.
The Concert Choir will also be performing February 28 at Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church in Marrero at 7 p.m. and they giving another concert on April 13 in the DeBose Music Recital Hall.